LA SALLE - The far-reaching impact of an internet hoax or false headline is nothing new. On Tuesday, Oct. 30, the Hegeler Carus Mansion in LaSalle invites the public to a special event that will revisit the day in 1938 when some radio listeners believed Martians had attacked America.
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LA SALLE - The far-reaching impact of an internet hoax or false headline is nothing new. On Tuesday, Oct. 30, the Hegeler Carus Mansion in LaSalle invites the public to a special event that will revisit the day in 1938 when some radio listeners believed Martians had attacked America.
When the radio adaption of H.G. Wells’ science fiction novel, “The War of the Worlds” aired on Oct. 30, 1938 it fooled some listeners into believing they were hearing actual breaking news accounts of an alien attack. Narrator Orson Welles, then a 23-year-old boy from Kenosha, Wis. went on to stardom as an actor, director, writer and producer.
In marking the 80th anniversary of this memorable event, the Hegeler Carus Mansion has invited Chad Brokaw, who will begin the evening at 7:30 p.m. with a short talk about the history and phenomenon of radio. Before tuning in to the original 1938 broadcast, guests will learn some interesting details about Orson Welles from Tricia Kelly, who will explain the ways in which Welles took broadcasting to new heights.
Since radios played a pivotal role in providing information and entertainment for the Hegeler and Carus families, many of the family’s antique radios will be on display. Wine and cheese will also be served at the event.
Tickets are now on sale, but seating is limited. For pricing and other information, visit www.hegelercarus.org.
